Public speaking can be daunting. It may seem impossible to get over those shaking knees and cold sweats, but getting over trepidation can be extremely useful for goals like, say, getting a job. So, here’s your bum tip sheet for speaking up and not having a heart attack in the process.
Like most projects, starting small makes this effort more manageable. It’s unlikely that you’re going to get over your anxiety in day. Don’t make that a goal. Instead, try tackling the fear of the unknown first with small tasks.
Set a time frame, and slowly build confidence. On day one, approach a total stranger and ask for the time. On day two, try asking a stranger for change for a dollar. Notice how day one’s task was a minimal interaction and day two’s was only a mild inconvenience. The worst that can happen is that the stranger says no. (Please don’t approach anyone with a machete or other obvious danger signs.) Expose yourself repeatedly to interactions with strangers so you start to internalize the knowledge that people are not so scary.
Study great speech makers from Citizen Kane style actors to ToastMasters winners to get a sense of what works and doesn’t. Practice in front of the mirror all you want, but nothing can substitute for for actual experience. If you’re making a big presentation, con a friend into being a test audience. If you want to grow your ego (a good thing in this case), ask a sweetie-pie. But, if you have serious doubts about your style, ask someone brutally honest to critique your performance. Eventually, you will actually have to speak in front of strangers, but do prep work for a boost of confidence and skill building. Then, get ready to take a flying leap.
When it’s sink or swim time, remember to stand up straight, have a hankie handy to blot that sweat, and say something innocuously amusing (offending the room is a mistake except in a comedy club).
Don’t rely just on us, take advice from experts:
Annie Korzen, of Bargain Junkie fame, tells it like is. And, in this case, she’s here to help you do the same:
Toastmasters seem to know what they’re doing. And yes, we know these are the 2008 winners, but luckily good advice doesn’t expire like cheese:
And, Darren LeCroix (the World Champion of Public Speaking) can definitely tell you what’s up. Watch a master at work:
Want more? Check out these Squidoo resources. Break a leg!